Yep, it has been a year since I became a momma…August 16, 2016, to be exact. We get to celebrate our 1st Gotcha Day. Which, the 12-year-old loves because it means it is a second round of birthday gifts. While I had been present for 4 years, being present is not the same as being the mom. I know, I know, the work is the same, the gray hair-inducing moments are the same, but really…the essence of it is certainly not the same. We are bound now and it is lifelong.
While technically only a legal bond, that paperwork gives me the right to do what I need to do to make sure he grows up to be the best version of himself. Along with that, our personal bond continues to grow and change – as it should. Some days he adores me, some days he ignores me. In some ways, adoption is a relief because I have no genetics in this game. My flaws are solely my own and I do my best (some days) to not pass them onto him (nature versus nurture, anyone?). Regardless, it is still the most important job I have – and will ever have. My goal is to help guide and form a person who is successful and happy and actually wants to hang out with us on occasion.
So, to all the other Gotcha mommas (and daddies) out there, eat some cake, drink a beer, and hug your own adopted baby – no matter how big. I will be celebrating with you!